Affordable wedding gowns - many choices and the smart way to look for a wedding gown!

So he’s popped the question and soon you’ll be walking down the aisle. What will you be wearing? If you’re not careful, you might be shelling out the equivalent of a few mortgage payments on your dress. Or, you could find an affordable wedding gown, and spend the savings on setting up house. Here’s how:

1. Cut down on extras. Splurge on a gorgeous gown but skip the veil, hairpiece, train and gloves. Forgo the lace and beading.

2.Save on the fabric. Get your dream, couture dress but save 15-35% by ordering it in a cheaper fabric. Modern synthetics look great and are affordable. Also, choose a simple silhouette. The more fabric you use, the more it will cost.

3.Surf the net. There are many sites that sell off last season’s gowns and remainders at affordable prices. Check out http://www.everafterformal.com/ for gowns between $300-1000.

4.Shop sample sales. You may be able to get a great deal at bridal shop sample sale. In December and May, they sell off their inventory to make room for the new designs. You’ll have to be slim for this one though: most samples are a size 8.

5. Be a bridesmaid. Why not try on a bridesmaid’s dress? You can usually get one in white if you are a traditionalist. Try www.bestbridesmaid.com.

6.Buy used or borrow one. Look on eBay.com or Craiglist.com. Look in consignment stores. Wear your mother’s wedding dress.

7.Sell your gown. Consignment stores and gown rental boutiques will often sell your gown for you. Or post a description of it on the message board at http://www.theknot.com/co_mbmain.shtml.

8. Rent a gown. You won’t have as much selection as when you buy, so look early. In the USA, try http://www.formalsetc.com/. In Canada, check out http://directory.canadianbride.com.